The Carolina Hurricanes twice found their two-goal margin halved in the third period of their latest playoff game with the Washington Capitals. Each time they found a prompt response.

For part of Monday night, the Washington Capitals stunk. For other parts, they tried desperately to remain with the Carolina Hurricanes — and just about did. But think about that for a second. It feels as if the Capitals are merely trying to hold on to this second-round Stanley Cup playoff series with the tips of their fingernails as the Hurricanes rip it away from them.

After the Capitals threw everything they had at the Hurricanes in the first period, Washington was out of answers. It was the kind of game that can end a series, mentally if not mathematically.

The Carolina Hurricanes find themselves just one game away from the Eastern Conference Final after taking a 3-1 series lead against the Washington Capitals

Getting contributions up and down the lineup, the Carolina Hurricanes put forth a formidable team effort Monday, when they skated

Washington Capitals' Connor McMichael (24) controls the puck with Carolina Hurricanes' Eric Robinson (50) in pursuit during the third period of Game 3 of an NHL hockey Semi-final round playoff series in Raleigh, N.C., Saturday, May 10, 2025. (AP Photo/Karl DeBlaker) AP

We have a pair of Game 4s ahead of us in tonight's NHL playoff action. The Carolina Hurricanes can take a 3-1 series lead with a win against the Washington Capi

After a 4-0 win in Game 3 on Saturday night, the Carolina Hurricanes are looking to take both games at home against the Washington Capitals. The two teams face off in Game 4